Recovering from drug and alcohol addiction is never easy. Just like many other addiction, it takes a lot of time for addicts to recover and return to their normal healthy states. The good news is: it’s a very treatable ordeal. In fact, there are a number of recovery therapies combined with medication that can help patients overcome addiction. Most of these therapies will require a professional to assist you during your rehabilitation. You will also need support from family, friends, and relatives so make sure you have them close. However, the most important part of your recovery, is the psychological part –  your own desire to help yourself.

Have no idea what to do or where to start? We’ve listed important self-care tips to help yourself overcome drug and alcohol addiction and increase the chances of full-recovery.

Priority Change – Treatment Comes First!

In this phase of your life, there should only be one important thing: overcoming your addiction. The rest can be dealt with after you’ve recovered, so make sure you’re setting your priorities right. You must put your health above everything. This means making time and effort for your treatment in place of secondary things like work or recreation. It’s not going to be easy but you should never skip your therapy sessions for anything. Even if you don’t like bonding with strangers, it’s important to create a healthy relationship with professionals who provide your treatment.

Say Goodbye To Toxic Friends

Addiction can sometimes be driven by peer pressure. If you want the rehabilitation to be successful, you need to change your environment to keep stress and the bad habits away. That means avoiding friends and the other acquaintances who were also involved in drugs and alcohol. You need to surround yourself with positive people, experiences and events that will stimulate your brain to work in a new way.

Embracing a Healthy Lifestyle

Diet and exercise are vital to your rehabilitation’s overall success. With proper nutrition you can hasten your recovery, all you need is a little discipline when it comes to what to eat and what not to eat. Food like fruits, vegetables, poultry, nuts, and dairy should be consumed while highly palatable and addictive food like sugar, caffeine, non-saturated fats should be moderated and best avoided. Proper hydration is also crucial to ensure proper brain functioning. And exercise to improve your bodily functions, muscles, and mental health. You do not have to do intense workout, just a 30 to 45-minute walk three times a week will do wonders for your body. It will improve your overall health and strengthen your immune system.

Emotional and mental support

Going through rehabilitation is tough if you have to do it alone. Without support from loved ones, it’s easy to fall into temptations and get back on your old habits. In order to have a successful recovery, you need your friends, loved ones, and family by your side. It’s also a good idea to join support groups who allow sharing of ideas, experiences, and success in overcoming their addiction.

Find new interests

Once your rehabilitation is over, it’s time to get back on your old life with renewed hope. As soon as you step out of the center, you will feel like a new person. You will feel braver, happier since your bad habits are long dead. Now it’s time to find a new healthy hobby or activity that will make you happy and satisfied with life.

Long term effects of drug and alcohol addiction

Drugs and alcohol have the capacity to change the brain which can have long-term negative effects to the user. Addiction causes torment in people and their families. It ruins lives and takes away many good years. It’s time to seek help. There are many drug and rehabilitation centers, support groups, and professionals willing to lend a hand. You are not alone.